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And it has been the hard-working team at Dougie Mac that has inspired Jackie to go into work every day.

She added: “It has been a privilege to work here and we have so many wonderful workers, volunteers and patients.

“I’ve wanted to continue working here because it’s such a nice caring place with great staff.

“When I joined, it was nice to be able to fit working around my family life. I've been here for a while now, but I would like to think I have a few more years left in me yet.”

At the hospice’s awards ceremony at the Moat House, in Etruria, Jackie was presented with a certificate of recognition as well as a bouquet of flowers. Colleagues had also recorded a video message, sharing the memories of the last 40 years.

Also recognised was volunteer Len Croasdale, who helps with the hospice lottery. He has been with the hospice for a decade and agrees it is the people who make it special.

Volunteers Donna Adams, Len Croasdale, and Jane Gilks

The 77-year-old, from Birches Head, said: “My team is just me and 11 women and I enjoy it a lot volunteering at Dougie Mac.

“I’ve been here for 10 years now – since my wife Patricia died in a hospice. She was treated well so I wanted to give something back.”